When I applied to be part of Transatlantic Storytelling, I knew I had a slim chance of being picked. As a freshman, I thought that most upperclassmen would have priority. But a little voice in my head told me to apply anyway and see what happened, and alas, I applied and was chosen to be part of the project.
I was excited yet nervous because I knew I had to show that I was very dedicated and deserving of being chosen as a freshman. I was set on proving that I was deserving. I must admit, this was an immature mindset, but one that was quickly changed.
Throughout the project, I had three different ideas set on my piece, all of which fell through by the time we got to Cardiff. At this point, we had eight days left on the trip and no current plan. I remember I felt lost. I didn’t know what to do.
I was the only underclassman on the trip and felt I had accomplished nothing for the project. Part of me felt like maybe it was a mistake to put me on the trip. Another part of me felt like a failure. But the tiny voice in my head wouldn’t budge and told me to try something else out and see what happens, and sure enough, I tried, and I did.
That is what sticks out most to me about the trip—learning how to make something out of nothing. Being able to be in an unfamiliar environment and still thrive and push through. It brings out the best in you.
It challenges you. Looking back now, it was a blessing in disguise. I could have had all the pieces in front of me, but instead, I had to challenge myself and find a solution.
That’s when I realized what this project meant to me. It’s more than just a trip overseas. It’s more than being able to make a documentary.
It’s about learning the resilience it takes to overcome the many obstacles that will present themselves and growing both in your mindset of yourself and as a creative mind.
So, when I think about the trip, among all the opportunities, nights out, and collaboration with Cardiff students, I’ll never forget the growth in resilience those two weeks instilled in me.